Airplane Adventure

Astrid was just over 2 months old when I took her to California for Thanksgiving. Being under age two she didn't have to have her own seat, so she was essentially a carry-on. We were able to take the stroller (with car seat snapped in) through security and right up to the door of the plane, where both pieces were tagged and stored (somewhere) on the plane. I simply carried her on and the stroller was waiting in the ramp when we landed.

My thoughts:

• Going through security was no more complicated with a baby, I simply had to send the stroller and car seat through with the diaper bag, and carry Astrid with me.
• Best to have the seat(s) next to you on the plane empty or occupied by someone you are traveling with. Since we were traveling for a major holiday our flight was overbooked, but my parents were with us so we were able to stretch out more.
• Use disposable diapers instead of cloth while traveling.
• If the baby is small enough still, you can change her diaper in your seat (made easier if the seat or lap next to you is available). I did not take Astrid to the toilet on the airplane for a diaper change.
• Breastfeeding on the plane is easy and discreet, and apparently helps prevent ear pain from altitude change (which didn't appear to bother Astrid at all).
• If your baby does cry during the flight, it's not nearly as loud as you would expect due to all the plane noise. The plane is the quietest before take-off and after landing (Astrid got a little fussy after landing).
• It was helpful to have someone with me who could hold the baby while I went to the toilet, and help with my luggage.

Overall, it was a lovely experience.